Phillip Clive Butterworth

On 9 January 2023, at Blackpool North station, 70-year-old Phillip Clive Butterworth approached a woman with learning difficulties who was waiting alone for her train. He engaged her in conversation, asking if she was travelling solo, before boarding the same train and sitting next to her.

During the subsequent 25-minute journey, Butterworth subjected the victim to lewd sexual suggestions and trapped her in her seat, preventing her from moving away. He also touched her inappropriately, leaving her terrified and distressed. In her fear, the woman sent desperate text messages to her mother, pleading 'help me' and seeking advice on how to handle the situation.

The assault was investigated by British Transport Police, leading to Butterworth's arrest. At Preston Crown Court on 7 December 2023, he pleaded guilty to sexual assault. The court imposed a sentence of 27 months' imprisonment, reflecting the severity of the offence against a vulnerable individual.

In addition to the custodial sentence, Butterworth was issued with a restraining order prohibiting contact with the victim and was placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years. Detective Constable Chris Biggs of British Transport Police described the incident as 'a vile and disgusting assault on a vulnerable young woman who was left terrified by Butterworth’s disgusting and inappropriate behaviour.' He noted that the sentence would provide some comfort to the victim as she recovers from the trauma inflicted upon her.

This case underscores the importance of vigilance on public transport, particularly in protecting vulnerable passengers from predatory behaviour. The British Transport Police continue to encourage reporting of such incidents via text to 61016 for discreet assistance.